Flights from Bengaluru (BLR) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a dynamic port city on the eastern tip of Java, known for its broad boulevards, maritime heritage, and access to striking volcanic landscapes. You will find a mix of heritage districts, modern developments, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

What to expect
The city blends colonial-era architecture, leafy neighbourhoods, and contemporary shopping streets with busy harbourside scenes along the Kalimas River. Wide roads, growing café culture, and large malls give Surabaya a spacious, modern feel compared with many other Indonesian cities.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is a practical base for exploring East Java, including popular trips to Mount Bromo and the cooler highlands. With good connections to nearby islands and cities, it works well as both a city break and a gateway to wider adventures in Indonesia.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Explore a well-preserved historic complex with a museum set in elegant early 20th-century buildings and a charming courtyard café.

Suramadu National Bridge

Drive or ride across this long bridge linking Java and Madura for sweeping sea views, especially atmospheric around sunset and after dark.

Tunjungan Street

Stroll along this lively central avenue lined with malls, hotels, and restored heritage buildings that showcase Surabaya s urban character.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Step inside a decommissioned submarine on the riverfront to learn about Indonesia s naval history in an unusual setting.

Cheng Hoo Mosque complex area

Admire the distinctive Chinese-inspired architecture and colourful details around this landmark complex and its surrounding streets.

Kampung Arab district

Wander narrow lanes near the old port, where traditional trading houses and small shops give a sense of Surabaya s trading past.

Kenjeran Park waterfront

Head to the coast for sea breezes, open views, and family-friendly recreation areas along Surabaya s shoreline.

Experience Surabaya s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move between central districts, malls, and the waterfront. In some neighbourhoods you can also use local minivans or city buses, then walk the final stretch along pavements and side streets.

Local life & culture
Central Surabaya has a relaxed pace, with residents gathering in parks, cafés, and simple eateries in the cooler hours. Neighbourhoods around the historic north, riverside areas, and university zones give an insight into student life, creative scenes, and everyday routines.

Where to unwind
You can unwind in city parks and landscaped public spaces that offer shade and room to stroll, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Along the coast, waterfront promenades and open-air spots provide sea air, gentle views, and a chance to slow down before or after a busy day.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for flavourful dishes served from small warungs and street stalls, where noodle soups, rice plates, and grilled snacks are popular. Areas near traditional markets and older neighbourhoods are good places to sample simple, satisfying local meals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern malls and lifestyle centres across central Surabaya offer convenient food courts and cafés featuring Indonesian favourites, Asian comfort food, and international choices. Portions are often modest, so you can comfortably try a couple of dishes or share plates with your travel companions.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose restaurants in high-rise hotels or rooftop venues with views over the city lights and harbour. Some waterfront and garden settings also create a relaxed backdrop for slow, lingering meals after a day of exploring.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has several large malls where you will find international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family entertainment in one space. These centres double as social hubs, making them comfortable places to shop, meet friends, and take a break from the heat.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and older shopping streets offer textiles, household items, and locally made products with a more informal feel. Districts near the old town and port area are especially good for browsing smaller shops and independent traders.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many malls stay lively with late-opening stores, cafés, and casual dining spots. Some street-side areas also grow busier in the evenings, with illuminated shopfronts and food stalls. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to reach these key shopping areas at night.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (musim kemarau, May to October, peak season)
During the dry season, days are generally sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). It is ideal for city sightseeing, coastal outings, and excursions to nearby highlands, with relatively low humidity and fewer showers.

Transition months (April and November, shoulder season)
In these months, you can expect warm temperatures of about 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F), with occasional short showers mixed with bright spells. The city feels relaxed, and you can enjoy outdoor activities while benefiting from less intense heat than peak dry months.

Wet season (musim hujan, December to March, low season)
The wet season brings regular rain showers and higher humidity, with temperatures typically between 26°C and 30°C (79°F and 86°F). Rain often falls in bursts, leaving clear intervals, so you can still explore museums, malls, and cafés while experiencing the lush, refreshed side of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions